Byron’s newest cultural hotspot

It’s about culture, it’s about creative and it is about caring for your community.

The Encounter Byron project, based in the Byron Arts and Industry Estate,

is building on the foundations of the Kulchajam space to be a ‘showcase of the emerging culture of Byron,’ according to director Adam Collett.

‘It is about maintaining the heart of the creative culture while also integrating fresh ideas and fresh people,’ he says.

Care Box program

Creating a space for music, dance, workshops and more, Adam also sees the future of Encounter Byron as an opportunity to help those in need, through their Care Box program. He says it’s a way of connecting and providing opportunities to the youth of the Shire, as well as being a small business incubator and shop collective.

‘We have this incredible resource and we want to make it as accessible and used by the community as much as possible,’ continued Adam.

The Care Box program has been set up to reach out to people who are in need, unseen or unheard.

If you know someone who is struggling and needs a hand you can nominate them to receive a Care Box.

Inside, there are things they might need, from food to messages of love and support.

‘We want to be a bridge,’ Adam said, highlighting that it is about both support and getting those in need connected to the community and the right people who can help them. Encounter is also working on an Indigenous outreach program, and have partnered with local groups – including One Vision – with the aim of supporting young people in the region.

Culture showcase

A series of summer street markets is also being planned that will ‘showcase the emerging culture of Byron from youth hip-hop to eco-markets, local food and businesses that call this place home.’

‘We are looking to help especially people in need,’ said Adam.

‘From an artist with no outlet to fundraisers and workshops, I love helping people make their dreams a reality.’

For more information or to get involved visit www.encounterbyron.com or drop down to see them at 1 Acacia Street, Byron Arts and Industry Estate.